A word from Thomas Of Kempis

[SloopidyBoop]

Watcha think?

I am an introvert so I am all about being a shut in. And I don't really do well in debate. So, many of these words ring true for me. But I am interested in Y'all's take on this.

 

[timf]

Each person is unique. One with one set of skills will do better or worse at a given task than another. It sounds like Tom is trying to advocate moderation but by the process of presenting axioms that are not necessarily true.

This literary method can sound pithy and catchy, but I tend more towards preferring clarity and accuracy. For the given example of conversation, the extrovert bombast often inflicts himself on others while the guarded introvert may (when he finally speaks up) have something of value to share.

 

[SloopidyBoop]

Each person is unique. One with one set of skills will do better or worse at a given task than another. It sounds like Tom is trying to advocate moderation but by the process of presenting axioms that are not necessarily true.

This literary method can sound pithy and catchy, but I tend more towards preferring clarity and accuracy. For the given example of conversation, the extrovert bombast often inflicts himself on others while the guarded introvert may (when he finally speaks up) have something of value to share.

Ya that's for sure... Do you suppose there is a value difference between the two types in the eyes of God? Perhaps His personal preference may be for the man who is more boisterous, vs the quiet one?

I am genuinely curious because I'm not a very good Christian. I love studying, but even at that, most Christians are way beyond my ability in wisdom and discernment. Part of me wonders if Thomas was right about some of us. Maybe it IS Best for some of us to stay home. I dunno.

 

[timf]

I think faithfulness is what is valued more. Peter tells his readers to be ready to give a reason for their hope when asked, not go out out and get people to ask. I do not see this as placing a value on accomplishment but on an availability and preparedness to respond.

The fact that we can see ourselves as "not very good" Christians I see as a testiomony to the progress we have made in discerning truth. In Ephesians chapter four we learn that the objective of the Christian path is Christ-likeness. However, it is a process of growth and maturity. We can aid this by seeking to walk more after the Spirit and less after the flesh (Galatians 5).

 

[SloopidyBoop]

Mhm. I have found over the years since I first believed that there is a certain annoyance I tend to feel towards "Flesh stuff". And now that I am a middle aged man I find myself sitting and waiting and praying for another spiritual moment. Because I love the Spirit more. And when I was younger it seemed like such a chore, and would Tempt myself with flesh things as if to say "You've been good". And now I am repulsed by the thought of "Rewarding myself" with the warmed over poison of the flesh. It is an arduous journey indeed.